Are you looking for a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Bang Bang Broccoli recipe is a game-changer. It's packed with vibrant flavors, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion with every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (vegan mayonnaise works well too!)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste!)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Toasted sesame seeds for garnish, chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly and pat them dry. This ensures they crisp up nicely during cooking.
Step 2: Steam or Roast the Broccoli
You have two excellent options for cooking your broccoli:
- Steaming: Steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. This method retains the most nutrients.
- Roasting: Toss the broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until tender-crisp and slightly charred. Roasting adds a delightful depth of flavor.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, sesame oil, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – more sriracha for extra heat, more soy sauce for saltiness, etc. This is your chance to personalize this delicious sauce!
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Once the broccoli is cooked, add it to the bowl with the Bang Bang sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and/or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicier sriracha.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would be delicious additions to this dish.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this Bang Bang Broccoli over rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Cook the broccoli and make the sauce ahead of time, then combine them just before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information will vary depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise figures based on your specific recipe. However, a general estimate suggests Bang Bang Broccoli is relatively low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins.
This easy recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend lunch. Enjoy!